Adams now wants assurances that the city's initial pledge of $100 million -- $160 million including interest payments -- will not increase. In fact, Adams wants to cap the city's contribution at $100 million or 30 percent of project costs, whichever is lower. Adams also wants the first $20 million in potential savings to go exclusively to Portland, with any money thereafter divided among participating governments.

It appears Adams' latest request may delay a possible agreement until mid October, if not November. Portland's consultant -- KPFF, hired by the city last week at a cost of up to $150,000 -- is scheduled to issue preliminary findings Oct. 15 and a final report isn't due until Nov. 19. It seems doubtful that Adams would endorse an intergovernmental agreement solidifying his initial $100 million pledge until the analysis comes back.

Adams said before Wednesday's meeting that he is prepared to drop some requests, including a provision that the county transfer to the city ownership of Willamette River bridges as part of the Sellwood deal. Adams also said the city would not push the county to spend a portion of its gas-tax revenue on projects within city limits, which had been another issue for the mayor.

Adams acknowledged feeling pinched financially, as the city of Portland is being pressed to nearly double its $30 million contribution to $55 million to help fill the shortfall for a proposed light-rail line to Milwaukie.

"I need to get both projects done," he said.

Portland's consultant mainly will look for cost savings on the proposed bridge and the westside interchange with Oregon 43. Interchange options could include realignments, lane reductions, a signalized intersection or design exceptions to requirements for state roads. Bridge options also could include reconfigurations bike lanes and combined bike and pedestrian sidewalks.

The review also assumes vehicle access to the former Staff Jennings boat store at the base of the Sellwood Bridge will no longer be necessary.

Multnomah County's $329 million cost estimate on the project came from CH2M Hill Inc. in September 2009. HDR Engineering Inc. reviewed the cost estimates in October 2009 and supported the estimate, saying the price could be between $322 million to $342 million. Those estimates include a contingency of up to $60 million.

Portland Bureau of Transportation Director Sue Keil said the consultants have asked Multnomah County for a series of documents and data, including detailed cost estimates and aerial views of project alternatives.

"We're having difficulty getting some of the information we need to do this analysis," she said. "I think it's all public information."